The Other Magic Kingdom

There's a certain glowing magic about San Francisco, so it seems only natural that a spellbinding place like the Exploratorium would have landed there. I can't remember how old I was when I first visited, but I do know that when I walked in those doors, I wanted to stay for days. It's not just magical, it's smart and creative and inspirational and boundless and lots and lots of fun.
   The Exploratorium moved from its beautiful home in the Palace of Fine Arts to Pier 15 not too long ago (http://somanyinterestingthings.blogspot.com/2013/03/exploratorium-from-palace-to-pier.html), and I haven't seen it there, but by all accounts, it's just as special ~ maybe even more so, as it has more room in which to excite. Here is a great interview with its executive director, Dennis Bartels: http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-morrison-bartels-20130807,0,41567.column?page=1
   This is the Exploratorium's youtube site, which includes a delightful look at the Tinkerer's Clock and its inventor, British artist Tim Hunkin. Speaking of magic!: http://www.youtube.com/user/Exploratorium